If you’re seeking a unique, inspiring, and educational experience in India, a visit to Wildlife SOS in Mathura offers just that—and so much more. Nestled near the cultural heart of Agra, home of the iconic Taj Mahal, Wildlife SOS welcomes visitors for a behind-the-scenes look at its Agra Bear Rescue Facility —the largest of its kind in the world—and the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre, a sanctuary for India’s rescued elephants.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, an eco-conscious traveller, a family seeking meaningful experiences, or just curious about India’s rich natural heritage, this visit will stay with you for a lifetime.

Nature: The Greatest Teacher

When we think of education, we often imagine classrooms and lecture halls. But there is no classroom more powerful than nature itself. At Wildlife SOS, learning comes alive—under open skies, among forests and rivers, and alongside animals whose stories speak louder than any textbook ever could.

Set within beautiful natural habitats, both the Agra Bear Rescue Facility and the Elephant Conservation and Care Centre offer immersive encounters with wildlife and their remarkable journeys from trauma to recovery. Every visit not only opens your eyes to the world of conservation but also supports the ongoing care of these incredible animals.

Meet the Bears: From Tragedy to Triumph

The Agra Bear Rescue Facility is where 89 rescued sloth bears now live peacefully ​after being saved from the horrific practice of “dancing bear” performances, a cruel tradition once rampant across the Indian subcontinent. ​A total of 628​ bears have been rescued​, each of whom was taken from the wild as cubs, had their muzzles pierced with hot iron rods, and were forced to perform for entertainment.

Today, thanks to years of tireless work by Wildlife SOS, these bears are no longer symbols of suffering, but of hope.

What You’ll Experience:

• A guided tour of the facility with our trained Education Officers, who will walk you through the rescue stories, rehabilitation process, and daily care routines.
• Visits to our eco-friendly green kitchen, where bear porridge is lovingly prepared using sustainable methods.
• Opportunities to observe the bears up close—from playing in enrichments to foraging, climbing, or relaxing in the sun.
• A deeper look into their medical care and speciali​sed treatment plans, including dental work, wound care, and nutrition.
• Insight into our anti-poaching efforts, how we tackle bear-human conflict, and how public awareness is key to ending wildlife exploitation.

Witnessing the bears’ natural behaviours—whether it’s digging, grooming, or wrestling—helps dispel common myths about these misunderstood animals and builds a genuine connection to their world.

Visit Our Gentle Giants: The Elephant Conservation and Care Centre

Just a short distance from the bear facility lies our Elephant Conservation and Care Centre, a place of peace and recovery for elephants rescued from lives of unimaginable hardship. Here, elephants who once suffered under the burden of tourist rides, street begging, or temple rituals now receive respect, dignity and lifelong care.

You’ll meet some of our most beloved residents—many with heart-breaking pasts, now healing in body and spirit.

Highlights of the Elephant Visit:

• An overview of scientific, humane elephant management, including positive reinforcement and target training (used to encourage voluntary participation in health check-ups).
• First-hand insight into challenges in elephant healthcare, particularly focused on foot care—many elephants arrive with cracked, infected, or deformed feet due to years of walking on hot concrete and being chained.
• Access to our viewing veranda, where you can quietly observe the elephants enjoying their days—splashing in pools, rubbing against trees, munching on fresh fruit, or engaging with enrichment toys.
• One-on-one conversations with veterinarians and caregivers, who will share touching stories of recovery, along with practical knowledge on how they meet the complex needs of these gentle giants.

Every elephant has a name. A story. A history of pain—and now, a future full of compassion.

Why your visit matters

Visiting Wildlife SOS is more than just a tour—it’s a contribution to real change. The daily care of over 200 animals across our centres requires extensive resources: nutritious food, veterinary supplies, enrichment materials and skilled caregivers.

By participating in our Visit Program, you are:

• Supporting long-term rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
• Funding medical treatment and daily care for our animals.
• Helping raise awareness about animal welfare and wildlife protection.
• Becoming a voice for the voiceless.

And in return, you gain an educational and deeply moving experience, guided by experts who are passionate about making the world a better place for animals.

A Day Well Spent: What to Expect

Our day visit program offers a structured, safe, and enriching experience, curated to maximise both learning and emotional connection. Here’s a typical overview of what your visit may include:

Reflection and Farewell
Relax on our peaceful veranda, take in the tranquil scenes, and reflect on the stories of resilience and recovery you’ve just witnessed.

Arrival & Welcome
Meet your Education Officer and get introduced to the mission and history of Wildlife SOS.

Tour of the Agra Bear Rescue Facility
Explore the living spaces of our sloth bears, observe them in action, and learn about ex-situ conservation, behavioural management and rehabilitation strategies.

Green Kitchen Visit
See how we cook up nutritious, eco-friendly meals for the bears using local ingredients and sustainable practices.

Elephant Conservation and Care Centre
Travel to our nearby elephant facility and spend time observing, photographing and learning about the life and care of our rescued elephants.

Meet Our Team
Hear from veterinarians, caregivers, and rescue staff who work round-the-clock to give these animals a new lease of life.

What You’ll Take Home

Inspiration: Real stories of healing and change, seen up close.

Education: A solid understanding of wildlife conservation, animal welfare and rescue operations.

Empathy: A new awareness of the challenges animals face—and how we can all help.

Memories: Meaningful conversations, once-in-a-lifetime animal encounters and a deep connection to nature.

Many visitors tell us they leave transformed, carrying a stronger sense of responsibility toward the natural world and a desire to make more compassionate choices.

Plan Your Visit

Wildlife SOS facilities are open to individuals, families, school groups, and organisations. Visits are by appointment only, ensuring a personalised and safe experience for both animals and guests.

Key Information:

Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, animal lovers, educators, travellers, families

Location: Mathura, near Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Programs: Day visits, educational tours, group packages

Booking: Advance booking required

Help Us Help Them

Every sloth bear and elephant you see has survived against the odds—and is now living a life free from pain because people like you care. By visiting us, you’re not just witnessing their transformation—you’re part of it.

So if you’re in India—or planning a trip soon— Bushbaby can set aside a day (or longer) in your itinerary for something unforgettable. Come walk among the bears. Sit with the elephants. Listen to their stories and become part of the solution.

For further information on volunteering, details can be found here: Volunteer – Wildlife SOS or email ​linda.w@wildlifesos.org

About the author

Abi Shaw - Bushbaby founder and avid explorer!